Human-Nature Interactions in Forested Landscapes (MS)
SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry: MS graduate research assistantship (starting August 2008) is available for a highly motivated student interested in research on forest ecosystems and their importance to human communities in the Adirondack Park (NY) and Northern Forest region (VT, NH, ME). The MS student will join a new and growing research program addressing sustainability and change in complex linked systems of humans and nature. Research topics may include: (1) assessment of carbon-related ecosystem services and potential offset related to land use practices including wilderness conservation and intensive timber production; (2) inventory of ecosystem services and modeling of potential disturbance impacts on provision of services; (3) development of surveys and coupled GIS models to understand non-market benefits of wilderness landscapes to people. Students will be actively encouraged to explore their own research ideas, develop interdisciplinary collaborations, and take advantage of the research facilities at SUNY ESFs Adirondack Ecological Center & Huntington Wildlife Forest (http://www.esf.edu/aec/staff/beier.htm). Research assistantship provides a competitive stipend, tuition waiver, health benefits, and the unique opportunity to live and work in the wilderness landscape of the Adirondack Park. A strong quantitative background, good communication skills, and the ability to function effectively in both field and laboratory settings are essential. Familiarity with plant ecology, soils, GIS and statistics is highly desirable. Previous experience and interest in modeling, spatial analysis, and/or economics is a big plus. Deadline for applying is April 1 2008; for more information and application instructions, please contact Colin Beier by email ([EMAIL PROTECTED]).
